FRAUD FRIDAY: Emergency Scams

As the number of frauds and scams continues to grow in the Nicola Valley, Merritt & Nicola Valley Crime Stoppers, and Q101 are teaming up to present Fraud Fridays, a feature designed to inform those in the community of the dangers of fraud, what they should look for, and what to do if they are a victim of fraud.

Marlene Jones, chair of the local chapter of Crime Stoppers, says that her organization is making fraud and fraud prevention a top priority in 2026, with hopes to keep the community safe from those looking to scam people out of their money and personal information.

Today’s Fraud Friday: Emergency Scams

What is a Emergency Scam?

An emergency scam (sometimes called a “grandparent scam”) happens when criminals contact you, often by phone, text, or email, claiming a family member is in immediate danger or trouble. They demand money or personal info to “help.”

 

How They Work

.Emotional manipulation: Scammers pretend to be a relative, friend, or authority figure.

.Urgency: They say your loved one has been in an accident, arrested, or stranded abroad.

.Payment demand: They pressure you to send money quickly, often via wire transfer, gift
cards, or cryptocurrency.

.Secrecy: They insist you don’t tell anyone, to keep you isolated and compliant.

 

What to Watch For:

• Calls or messages with urgent pleas for money.

• Requests for secrecy (“Don’t tell mom/dad”).

• Payment methods that are unusual or hard to trace

• Caller refuses to let you verify details or speak directly to your loved one

 

Steps to Protect Yourself

•Pause and verify: Call your loved one directly or check with other family members.

• Don’t rush: Scammers rely on panic—take time to confirm.

• Never send money or gift cards to unknown contacts.

• Hang up immediately if a caller pressures you.

 

What to Do If Targeted

• Stop all contact with the scammer.

• Report the incident to your local police, if you have lost money.

• Notify your bank/credit card provider if you shared financial info.

Bottom line: Emergency scams thrive on fear. Stay calm, always verify the facts, and never send money without confirming the situation.

 

The Merritt & Nicola Valley Crime Stoppers are also looking for volunteers this year to help out with local events. If you can spare just a few hours a month or would like to become more active within the organization by reaching out to Crime Stoppers via their website at www.nicolavalleycrimestoppers.com.